Original artwork description:

Long distance train rides were part of my life for as long as I can remember. Every summer, I would travel 21 hours each way to visit my grandparents' village, Ribushkino. It was founded in 1553 by a family escaping Ivan, the Terrible Tatar prosecution, so everyone in this village is somehow related to each other.

Smell of train, bright sunlight hitting the cabin, and snacks are all vivid in my mind. The tea served in special glass with a metal base truly tasted the best, especially with roasted sunflower seeds or sushki (round biscuits). Sunflower seeds were sold at all major train, bus, and subway stations, roasted to perfection, and served in handmade newspaper pockets. Every culture has circular bread (Europe, Middle East, etc), and Russia's sushki is no exception.
I am painting these series as a reflection of nostalgia, the time gone, and never to come back. When life seemed so easy and all figured out. Russia is no longer the same. But honestly, the whole world is upside down right now, and as we prepare to what's yet to come, we long for simplicity and joy.

Materials used:

Oil

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